Talent management: ThomasNet.com and ISM unveil new program to recognize millennials in supply chain

ThomasNet.com and Institute for Supply Management recently announced a new partnership to spotlight Millennials whose initiative, collaboration, innovation and/or leadership are strengthening the purchasing/supply chain management industry. The organizations launched a “30 Under 30 Rising Supply Chain Stars” Recognition Program during the annual ISM conference, ISM2014, in Las Vegas.

”We have created this program at a pivotal moment for the supply chain segment, which is gearing up for a generational shift as Baby Boomers retire,” said Mark Holst-Knudsen, President,ThomasNet. ” By the year 2025, members of today’s Millennial generation (18-32) will comprise about 75 percent of the workforce. This program is a way to encourage and honor those dedicated and creative professionals who represent the future of their industry.”

“Every day, supply chain management and purchasing professionals make decisions that affect their companies’ brands, competitive positioning, and bottom-line performance,” added Tom Derry, Chief Executive Officer, ISM. “Being able to have such an important impact makes supply chain management particularly rewarding. This group of outstanding young leaders can help influence one of the most strategic and dynamic careers in the global economy of the 21st Century.”

The ThomasNet/ISM program will showcase thirty Millennials who are thirty or younger, and who have already had notable accomplishments. Contributions to their companies, professional associations and the industry at large will all be considered. Examples include outstanding achievement, exceeding goals, creating or improving processes and more.

Each of these young luminaries will receive complimentary membership in ISM for one year. One “megawatt” professional from the group, along with their nominator, will receive an all-expense paid trip to ISM2015 to be held on May 3-6 in Phoenix, Arizona. Through the knowledge they gain from ISM programs, these young professionals will be empowered to make an even bigger difference to their organizations.

Individuals can nominate deserving young professionals by going to www.thomasnet.com/30under30. Self-nominations are also encouraged. The deadline is July 31, 2014, and winners will be announced in the fall. All nominees must be thirty or younger as of December 31, 2014.